Flights

1. Booking Your Flight

  • Online Platforms: Use Ctrip (Trip.com), Qunar, or international sites like Skyscanner.
  • Airline Websites: Check Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, etc., for direct deals.
  • Peak Times: Chinese New Year, Golden Week in October—book early to avoid high fares and limited seats.

2. Before You Arrive

  • Documents: Domestic flights require your passport (foreigners). Check visa rules for international routes.
  • Packing: Most airlines allow around 20–23 kg checked baggage plus a smaller carry-on.
  • Check-In: Either online (via airline apps) or at the airport counter (arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours for international).

3. At the Airport

  • Security Check: Keep your passport and boarding pass ready, remove laptops, follow liquid restrictions.
  • Gate Info: Watch overhead screens for gate number and boarding time. Larger airports may have shuttle trains or multiple terminals—plan extra time to reach your gate.

4. Boarding & Flight

  • Boarding: Show your ID and boarding pass. Some flights board by zones or seat rows.
  • In-Flight: Most domestic flights over 2 hours include a snack or meal; budget airlines may charge extra. Announcements are usually in Mandarin and English.

5. Arrival & Baggage

  • Domestic: Follow signs to Baggage Claim. Keep your baggage sticker in case it’s checked at the exit.
  • International: Clear immigration and customs; you may need to fill out an arrival card.
  • Transportation: Airports often connect to subway lines, shuttles, or taxis. Apps like Didi require a Chinese phone number.

Tips

  • Language: Major airports have English signs, but a translation app helps.
  • Security: Arrive early, especially in busy seasons.
  • Connectivity: Many airports offer free Wi-Fi with SMS verification or passport scan.

With proper planning—booking ahead, knowing baggage rules, and giving yourself time for security—you’ll find air travel in China convenient and straightforward. Safe travels!

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